Known for representing major clients in the entertainment industry, Cassels Brock & Blackwell advocates for IP owners seeking to protect their rights in a digital age. "The lawyers put themselves in the client's position and find creative solutions to difficult problems," said a client.
Led by Casey Chisick, the team represented CMRRA-SODRAC (CSI) before the Copyright Board of Canada involving proposed royalties for the reproduction of musical works by online services. A decision is expected to be issued this year. In a separate matter, the firm counselled CSI in a consolidated Federal Court of Appeal proceeding involving six separate applications for judicial review of SOCAN Tariff 22. Five of the applications have been acted on, and one remains under reserve.
Clients recommended Chisick for his intellect and copyright expertise. "He is one of the brightest lawyers I know," said a client. "He is an excellent advocate, and there are few lawyers who have his talents when it comes to presenting an argument." Partner Tim Pinos also received high marks: "He has a combination of intellectual property expertise and Copyright Act expertise, which are married quite effectively."
The firm's trade mark practice boasts an impressive list of Canadian-based companies, including Canadian Tire, Canwest and the branch of Parmalat. "None of the things we do seem to resemble each other, so we needed a firm that could handle everything its way and on a very quick time frame," said one client. Leonard Glickman and Shane Hardy were commended for their ability to convey complex issues clearly. "Len is just an all-around excellent lawyer because he has a good business sense," said a client. "We really rely on the Cassels team for very strong, practical advice."